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Signal Private Messenger is a secure messaging app developed by the Signal Foundation and initially released on May 25, 2010. Designed with privacy and security as its core principles, Signal has garnered a reputation as one of the most reliable and trusted messaging platforms available. The app is widely recognized for its end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the intended recipients can access the messages and media shared through the platform.

Signal offers a plethora of features that prioritize user privacy, including disappearing messages, which automatically delete after a set time period, and screen security measures to prevent screenshots or screen recording during sensitive conversations. It also provides secure voice and video calling functionalities, further enhancing communication privacy.

The Signal Foundation, a non-profit organization, oversees the development and maintenance of the app, reflecting its commitment to protecting user data and advancing the cause of privacy in the digital age. Signal's user-friendly interface and multi-platform compatibility have contributed to its growing popularity, with millions of users around the world relying on the app to safeguard their communications from prying eyes.

In total, 2,310,706 reviews are found in Google play store with 4.4 stars rating. There has been 100,000,000+ installs and it has also been collected in the most authorized "Editors' Choice" list. While in Apple app store Signal Private Messenger is ranked No. 12 in Social Networking category with 4.8 stars rating by 595.1K users. The app is rated as 12+ on Apple iOS App store and “Everyone” in Google Play store. 

Signal Private Messenger has always been updated and iterated to meet the endless stream of new requirements and expectations of our users, and this latest update is no exception. Among the improvements from the previous version: the app's developers have added a number of new and creative emojis, such as the face shake and the pea pod, for users and contacts to freely express.

Since Signal is a non-profit company it has no incentive to track user data. The company is funded by grants and private investors whose interest is to build a privacy-oriented platform. This free app collects virtually no data on its users. Signal uses standard cellular telephone numbers as identifiers, the only information you give the app is your phone number.

Once download the app user can start messaging people who are already using Signal, or you can tap “Invite Friends to Signal” if your contact doesn’t have the app yet. This creates an email or text message sent out to them with a link to download the app. 

Signal lets you message or call friends and family, either one-on-one or in groups. There are emoji, stickers and reacts available just like in other messaging app. Another notable fun feature is self-destructing messages, where user can set messages to disappear after certain customizable time frames for better privacy protection. Signal has created the encryption protocol which is the gold standard of privacy. Communications on Signal are strictly end-to-end encrypted, which means only the people in messages are the only people can see the content. Even group video calls (limited to five people) have been encrypted and sticker packs get their own special encryption as well.

Recently there has been some user complaint that Signal has deviated from its original mission by allowing third party advertising in the app which has now become a security concern. By adding an additional layer of script to monetize Signal opens up a serious security breach, which will eventually be exploited by hackers. In their opinion, it has gone downhill in terms of usability and security.

Pros:

•Easy to join with just a phone number

•Encryption protocol used is the gold standard of privacy

•No user data collected/stored

•Free and open-source software

Cons: 

•Some users reported being unable to send large video files using the app, or even delete chat history.